News and reports

From 1 October 2025, surgeries must allow patients to request appointments at any time during core hours (8am–6.30pm, Mon–Fri) by phone, in person or online. This was agreed between the government and British Medical Association (BMA) in April as part of negotiations for the GP contract 2025-26.

From October 2025, GP practices in England will follow a new Patient Access Charter. This sets out what you can expect when contacting your GP, and what your practice expects from you in return.

We have welcome the introduction of Jess's rule for GP patients to help improve patient safety.

Delays in diagnosis, preventable hospital admissions, and some patients incurring significant personal costs, sometimes thousands of pounds, are among the key findings of Healthwatch Cornwall’s new report on GP access.

The comprehensive, 44-page document highlights widespread problems, including the “8.00am scramble” to get an appointment, difficulties getting through on the phone, not being able to see a regular doctor, lack of clear surgery communication, digital barriers and accessibility.

Healthwatch Cornwall champions better standards of care in socially funded health and social care services.

Healthwatch Cornwall champions better standards of care in socially funded health and social care services.

Between May 2024 and April 2025 Healthwatch Cornwall carried out 28 Enter and View visits to primary care practices across the county.

Thanks to feedback from Margaret*, local health leaders are reviewing hospital discharge processes to better protect vulnerable patients returning home.

We have visited 28 health and care services including GP surgeries, hospital wards and nursing homes to observe care and gather feedback from patients and staff, helping to inform improvements during 2024/2025.

Residents in Cornwall say more accessible, responsive, and person-centred support is needed to navigate mental health services and reduce the barriers to treatment.

Facing challenges finding work due to limited experience, Ben joined Healthwatch Cornwall through a Job Centre volunteering placement. By supporting the team, he built new skills, grew in confidence, and found his place making a difference behind the scenes.

Over the past year we have listened to the people of Cornwall as they face rising living costs that are putting their health at risk.